Stoke-on-Trent City Council

The move has drawn criticism from some members who describe the authority as a "pay-day loan council".

Carl Edwards says he has watched "promise after promise broken" by his former party.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council has acquired the land from St Modwen for an undisclosed sum.

The authority said the overspend was largely being driven by the high cost of children in care.

Preparatory works have been completed and main construction works will begin this month, the city council said.

Maxine Clark says she was targeted by people who made derogatory comments about her appearance.

The council's leader says the additional money would help to tackle some financial challenges.